MTV said in a statement Wednesday that it "stands by the U.S. adaptation of 'Skins' and the vision of its creator, Bryan Elsley." The network added that the American version of a British hit "has earned the loyalty of fans across the globe for its thoughtful and honest portrayal of teen life today."

Ratings for the show slipped from 3.3 million to 1.6 million from its first week to its second.

The Parents Television Council, complaining about the show's depiction of underage characters having sex and doing drugs and drinking, have called on advertisers to pull their ads. Many have, including Taco Bell, GM, Wrigley, and Subway — though TMZ reports Lifestyles may seek ad time.

PETA already is. The animal rights group has asked MTV to air a PSA featuring Pink and Ricky Gervais voicing skinned animals. It says it is willing to pay for the airtime, but hopes MTV will air the PSA for free.

"It is a win-win proposal. They would get much needed positive attention, and their viewers would get a chance to see our 30-second spot," PETA spokeswoman Kristin Richards told TheWrap.

Though MTV has aired PETA ads locally before, this would be the first national one, she said.